19 Solar Energy Facts You Probably Didn't Know

Even though solar energy is gaining popularity, it's still quite a novel concept for the average energy user. In our latest post, we're diving into 19 fascinating solar energy facts you might not have known. Whether you're new to solar energy or consider yourself a renewable energy enthusiast, these insights are sure to amaze you. Let's dive in!

 

19 Solar Energy Facts

Solar Energy Has Been Used for Over 2,700 Years

Believe it or not, humans have been harnessing the power of the sun for millennia. From heating and cooking to warming our homes, solar energy has always played a crucial role in human civilization.

 

The First Commercially Viable Solar Cell Was Developed in 1954

While solar energy has been around for ages, it wasn't until 1954 that Bell Laboratories created the first commercially viable solar cell. This marked the beginning of modern solar technology.

 

Solar Power Is Earth's Most Abundant Energy Source

The potential of solar power is immense. In fact, just one hour of sunlight hitting Earth could supply the planet's energy needs for an entire year. If the entire Mojave Desert were covered with solar panels, it could generate more than double the electricity used annually in the United States.

 

Solar Panel Costs Have Dropped by 99% Since 1977

Back in 1977, a single solar cell cost a whopping £65 per watt. Fast forward to today, and thanks to advancements in technology, the price has plummeted to just £0.18 per watt. That's a remarkable 99% reduction over the past four decades.

 

Solar Energy Is Free

Sunlight is completely free, abundant, and available to everyone. In less than ten minutes, sunlight travels 90 million miles from the sun to Earth, providing a constant stream of energy throughout the day.

 

Solar Power Produces Zero Pollution

Apart from minimal pollution generated during production, solar power is one of the cleanest and most sustainable energy sources available. It plays a vital role in reducing the carbon footprint.

 

Solar Power Can Save You Money

With rising energy costs and inflation, installing solar panels can save you up to £300 annually on your energy bills, according to the Treasury. Additionally, any excess energy generated can be sold back to the grid, earning you extra income.

 

The Lifespan of a Solar Power Plant Is 40 Years or More

Most solar power plants come with a power purchase agreement lasting 20 to 25 years. However, even after this period, the infrastructure remains valuable. Old solar panels can be replaced with newer, more efficient models at a fraction of the original cost. This makes solar energy a long-term, cost-effective investment.

 

Solar Power Is the Leading Form of New Electricity Generation Worldwide

Thanks to improved efficiency and decreasing costs, solar power has become the go-to choice for new electricity generation globally. According to PV Magazine, solar accounted for 28% of the UK's total renewable energy generation in 2021, marking a significant increase since 2010.

 

Solar Power Is the Fastest Energy Source to Deploy

No other energy source can be deployed as quickly as solar in times of crisis. After Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, Tesla and other companies built a small solar power plant complete with energy storage in just a few weeks. Other energy sources would take far longer to set up.

 

Solar Panels Can Increase Your Home's Value

Studies have shown that installing solar panels can increase your home's resale value. While the exact amount depends on the location, you can typically expect a solar setup to add a few thousand pounds to your home's worth.

 

Solar Panels Are a Long-Term Investment

With proper maintenance, solar panels can last for decades, and many manufacturers offer warranties of up to 25 years. This makes them a smart, long-term investment.

 

Solar Energy Powers Space Missions

One of the more unexpected facts on this list is that solar technology has been used in space since the early 1950s. For over 50 years, solar power has provided energy for spacecraft. The Vanguard 1, the first satellite to use solar cells, remains the oldest man-made object still orbiting Earth, having traveled over six billion miles.

 

Airplanes Can Run Entirely on Solar Energy

Many people know that solar energy powers electric vehicles and trains, but did you know it can also power airplanes? Solar-powered planes can circumnavigate the globe using only solar energy. In 2016, Swiss explorer Bertrand Piccard completed a global flight aboard the Solar Impulse II, a solar-powered aircraft.

 

Solar Power Is Ideal for Temporary Use

Thanks to its ease of installation and abundance of sunlight, solar power is often used in temporary setups. Over the years, the Olympics, mining sites, and other events have utilized solar panels in temporary locations for a reliable energy source.

 

Solar Panels Provide Round-the-Clock Power

With solar storage systems, you can use solar power even when it's dark or cloudy. By attaching a battery to your solar panel system, you can store energy for later use. This ensures you can power your home 24/7, reducing your reliance on the grid.

 

Solar Panels Significantly Reduce Emissions

As environmental concerns grow, installing solar panels allows you to power your home without contributing to harmful emissions and greenhouse gases. According to the Energy Saving Trust, a typical household solar panel system can save around 1.3 to 1.6 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, depending on your location in the UK.

 

VAT on Solar Panels in the UK Has Been Scrapped Until March 2027

In April 2022, the UK government announced that the reduced VAT rate of 5% on solar panels had been eliminated. However, the rate has been further reduced to 0% to encourage households to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs. This VAT-free period will continue until March 2027 before reverting to 5%.

 

Solar Panels Make Your Home Less Dependent on the Grid

By generating and storing your own energy, you can reduce your reliance on the National Grid. This not only helps lower your energy bills but also contributes to a more sustainable future.

 

Ready to start your solar power journey? Contact us today, and our team will reach out. In the meantime, check out our blog for more information about solar panels.